This bill aims to enhance mental health education and support for students in Minnesota by modifying existing requirements related to mental illness. It mandates that starting in the 2026-2027 school year, school districts and charter schools must provide mental health instruction with curriculum approved by the Department of Education. Additionally, the bill requires youth sports programs to include training on recognizing mental illness in children and adolescents, as well as suicide prevention, alongside existing concussion training requirements.

Furthermore, the bill amends the statewide plan on restrictive procedures in schools, emphasizing the need to reduce the use of such measures and to address disparities in their application. It requires the commissioner to continue an advisory committee to gather input from various stakeholders, including advocacy organizations and mental health professionals, and to ensure that student and family perspectives are included in the decision-making process. The bill also establishes a reporting system for districts to track the use of restrictive procedures, thereby promoting accountability and transparency in handling mental health issues within educational settings.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 120B.21, 121A.37, 125A.0942